Helping hand (tool)

A helping hand, also known as a third hand, soldering hand, or X-tra Hands, is a type of extremely adjustable jig used in soldering and craftwork to hold materials near each other so that the user can work on them.

Description
A commonly produced version consists of a weighted base, a pair of twice-adjustable arms ending in crocodile clips, and optionally a magnifying glass, held together by flexible joints. It is usual to work with an additional table lamp and there are also some third-hand models, with light already incorporated.

Purpose
The clips are used to hold a light workpiece in place while the joints allow the user to change the position or angle. Sometimes helping hands are augmented with modules from the adjustable coolant hose systems used with machine tools.

Similar instruments
There are various types of hand tools and similar instruments for assistance or temporary support for work, crafts and even for other tools, such as:


 * Clamp
 * Retort stand
 * Band clamp
 * Tie down strap
 * Cable tie
 * Rubber band
 * Clothespin
 * Tourniquet
 * Neodymium magnet
 * Vise
 * Pipe clamp
 * Utility clamp
 * Locking pliers